[5][6] Romano was a regular starter for the early stages of his international career, but missed many opportunities to play through injuries which saw his starting spot taken by Brodie Retallick.

He missed the end of year fixtures however, allowing Scott Barrett to make his debut for New Zealand after coming into the squad as injury cover for Romano and Sam Whitelock.

Romano started against the touring British and Irish Lions team in a 3-12 loss that year however, due to injury to Barrett.

Romano reverted to a regular role off the bench upon Barrett's return from injury and was used as a replacement in all three of the knockout rounds of the 2017 Super Rugby season, including the 25-17 winning final against the Lions.

Romano went on to make five more appearances for the All Blacks in 2017, starting in all of them after Retallick opted not to play any more rugby in 2017 for personal reasons.